Livonia resident Patrick Paddock knows he’s not well-known in the city’s political arena. But that hasn’t stopped him for filing to run for the city’s top position.

“My first response to that is why not? I certainly meet all the required qualifications,” he said. “It’s an opportunity to serve the community.”

On Monday, Paddock, 30, became the second candidate to file to run for mayor of Livonia. A Livonia resident since 2006, he grew up in Orlando, Fla., before attending Madonna University to earn his bachelor’s degree in music. He’s remained in Livonia since, and currently works at St. Cyprian Catholic Church in Riverview as director of worship and music. He was recently elected as a precinct delegate for his neighborhood on the city’s south side.

He joins established candidate and current city council vice president Brian Meakin in the run to replace current mayor Jack Kirksey, who is leaving the office later this year.

Despite his lack of experience in the political field, Paddock said he was inspired by the state’s top official, Gov. Rick Snyder, when deciding to run.

“Part of my inspiration is from the governor. He’s a computer geek. He worked for Gateway,” Paddock said. “I think sometimes that different perspective, coming from a different angle, makes a lot of difference.”

He said talking to residents and city workers to get a feel for the issues that need to be addressed will be a priority for him.

“What are the priorities, what is important to the people? Identify what’s important,” he said. “We all have a responsibility.”

And having an additional candidate in the field does nothing but give voters another option in the voting booth, Paddock said.

“There should be some competition,” he said.

One more filing in the mayor’s race could trigger an Aug. 4 primary, if no one were to drop out of the race before the deadline. The last day to file for city office is April 21, with the dropout deadline April 24. If a primary is required, the top two candidates would move on to the general election Nov. 3.

Other races up this year include the city clerk, treasurer and four seats on the city council.